The anticipation for the 2026 NFL Draft is building as it approaches in about 70 days. Several former players from the Alabama Crimson Tide are looking forward to having their names called during the event. The NFL Scouting Combine recently released its list of invited participants, with 12 Alabama athletes making the cut.
On Tuesday evening, respected ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. unveiled his latest positional rankings and big board. His big board included 25 players, with quarterback Ty Simpson being the only representative from Alabama, landing at number 25. Kiper noted, “His lack of experience might be a concern, as Simpson didn”t start a game until last season, but the production is hard to ignore. Simpson knows the game and competes on every down. He”s a battler who is always trying to make a play — sometimes to his detriment. And Simpson maneuvers well in the pocket and can beat defenses with his legs when the passing play isn”t there.”
Out of the 12 Alabama players invited to the NFL Combine, 10 were featured in Kiper”s positional rankings. These rankings consist of 10 slots and a “just missed” section. The two invitees not mentioned in Kiper”s analysis are running back Jam Miller and cornerback Domani Jackson. Both players have exhausted their collegiate eligibility, as have several other Alabama players who did not make Kiper”s list or receive NFL Combine invitations, including running back Dre Washington, tight end Brody Dalton, guard Kam Dewberry, guard Geno VanDeMark, linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green, defensive back DaShawn Jones, and punter Blake Doud.
Looking ahead, the Crimson Tide will kick off their season on September 5 against East Carolina at Bryant-Denny Stadium. In other news, the men”s basketball team recently secured a victory against Ole Miss, winning 93 to 74.
Reflecting on the legacy of Alabama football, Coach Paul W. Bryant famously stated, “I feel the place for me to serve my state best is as head football coach at the University of Alabama. I thank all of those who have urged me to run, and I have given it careful consideration, but I”m a teacher, not a politician,” quelling any rumors of a political run during his tenure.
